DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

State of Arizona • Phoenix, AZ

262d • $126,500 - $147,000

About The Position

Under the direction of the State Forester, the Deputy Director for Operations provides strategic, organizational, and administrative leadership for operational functions within the Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM). As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), this position leads and oversees Public Relations, Wildland Fire, Forestry, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal programs while working collaboratively with other ELT members to develop, implement, and monitor agency goals.

Requirements

• Knowledge of leadership principles and ability to lead, think creatively, and motivate others.
• Knowledge of management theories, practices, and techniques.
• A working understanding of natural resources principles, land management, fire and life safety codes, and wildland fire issues.
• Knowledge of relevant stakeholders and customers and the ability to work with diverse organizations.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in interpreting and analyzing state and federal laws relevant to DFFM.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

• A combination of education, leadership, managerial, and operational experience.
• Strong knowledge of the principles of wildland fire, forestry, and existing codes and standards related to fire and life safety.
• Demonstrated history of leading large multidisciplinary teams with large budgets.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Director and ELT in setting and implementing the strategic direction of the agency and act as a key decision-maker on operational matters relating to Public Relations, Wildland Fire, Forestry and The Office of the State Fire Marshal.
• Represent the Director and agency in high-level meetings with government officials, stakeholders, and the public.
• Oversee major agency divisions and key staff to develop and maintain the annual Program of Work and ensure effective coordination and resource allocation in its execution.
• Ensure effective collaboration internally between agency staff and externally with agency partners to promote high morale and effective mission delivery.
• Improve operational efficiency by identifying and implementing effective policies and protocols in all agency operations.
• Supervise and mentor senior leaders, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
• Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, and staff development initiatives for assigned program areas.
• Promote an inclusive, safe, and professional work environment.
• Serve as a liaison between the agency and local, state, and federal entities, including elected officials, fire districts, tribal governments, and emergency management agencies for assigned operational areas.
• Represent the agency in legislative discussions, public hearings, and media engagements as needed.
• Ensure agency operations comply with relevant state and federal operational regulations, policies, and environmental standards for assigned program areas.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans.
• Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans.
• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child.
• Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years.
• Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly.
• Deferred compensation plan.
• Wellness plans.
• Tuition reimbursement eligible after one year of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support